Rubber occupies an important position in railway construction and operation with its many excellent properties.
High elasticity and excellent shock absorption and noise reduction are the core advantages of rubber pads. Its natural or synthetic rubber material gives it extremely high elasticity, which can quickly buffer the high-frequency vibrations generated when the train starts, brakes, and travels at high speeds, and greatly reduce the transmission of vibrations to the sleepers and the surrounding environment. In urban subway lines, rubber pads can effectively reduce the operating noise by 6-8 decibels, significantly alleviating the interference to residential areas along the line. At the same time, this high elasticity can evenly disperse the pressure of the wheels on the rails, protect the track structure, and extend the service life of the rails, sleepers and fasteners.
Excellent weather resistance and anti-aging ability allow rubber pads to adapt to a variety of complex environments. Through special formula improvement, it will not soften at high temperatures, will not crack in severe cold, and has strong resistance to ultraviolet rays and rain erosion. Railways in coastal areas have been affected by salt spray for a long time. After using rubber pads for many years, they can still maintain good elasticity and performance to ensure the stable operation of the track system.
In addition, rubber pads are cost-effective and easy to process. Its raw materials are widely available, and its production process is mature. Compared with EVA, HDPE and other material pads, its cost is lower. The use of rubber pads in special railway lines and temporary railway projects such as mines and ports can not only meet performance requirements, but also control construction costs. At the same time, rubber pads can be quickly formed through molding, injection and other processes, and are suitable for railway fastener systems of different specifications, making installation and maintenance more convenient.